Donald Paoletti of Waukesha passed away on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2014, at Seasonís Hospice surrounded by family at the age of 87. He was the beloved husband of Carol for 64 years; loving father of Luann (Sheldon) Watkins of Waukesha, Guy (Lori) Paoletti of New Berlin, and Dale (Maggie) Paoletti of Atlanta, Ga. He was the proud grandfather of Andrea and Marissa Watkins; AJ, Natalie, Katie and Bradley Paoletti. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Paoletti, and close childhood cousin David Balzarini.

Don was born in Iron Mountain, Mich., on May 14, 1927 the son of Sam and Theresa Paoletti. After graduating from high school, Don enlisted in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Benham during WWII and in the Naval Reserve until August of 1951.

He received his bachelorís degree in 1952 from Michigan State University and Master of Education from Marquette University in 1964.

After teaching in Michigan for five years, he and his wife, Carol, moved to Waukesha in 1957, where he began his 31 year career with the School District of Waukesha. Don was a social studies teacher, a counselor, an assistant principal and principal. He retired in July of 1988 as principal of Central Middle School. Don was a lifetime member of the National Education Association. Following retirement, Don and Carol moved to Brookfield Highlands and became managers of Building 5 for 12 years prior to moving to Avalon Square.

Don enjoyed traveling, camping, playing cards, bowling, playing softball, gardening and being Mr.

Fix-It. More than anything, he enjoyed spending time with his six grandchildren as they grew up. He was a longtime member of Saint Markís Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waukesha.

The family would like to thank the staff of Avalon Square and Seasons Hospice for the care and support they provided. They also wish to extend a special thank-you to Donís personal caregiver Lori for her dedication, love and friendship.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in Donís memory to the Alzheimerís Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001. St.
Markís Evangelical Lutheran Church, (See address above) or the Food Pantry of Waukesha County, 1301 Sentry Drive, Waukesha, WI 53186.

Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home, Cremation and Pre-Planning Services is serving the family. For further information, please call 262-542-6609, or for directions, an online obituary, or to leave a condolence, please visit ≠www.WaukeshasFuneralHome.com.